Heavy rainfall in Sri Lanka has led to widespread flooding and landslides, particularly affecting the Uva and Central provinces. The Kelani River in Western Province is rising rapidly, with all monitoring points surpassing major flood levels. Areas along the river, including Kaduwela, Kolonnawa, Wellampitiya, Kotikawatta, Kelaniya, Biyagama, and low-lying suburbs of Colombo are under high alert as floodwaters are expected to move downstream quickly.
The National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) has warned that water supply disruptions may occur in the Western Province if the Ambathale Water Treatment Plant is affected by rising river levels. Several water resources and treatment plants have already stopped operations due to heavy floods.
Power and water supplies have been disrupted in several regions of Uva and Central provinces. Telecommunications are also severely affected in these areas, with additional disruptions reported across the country. Landslide warnings have been issued for Badulla, Kandy, Kegalle, Kurunegala, Matale, Monaragala, and Nuwara Eliya districts. Evacuations are ongoing.
Torrential rains have caused flash floods resulting in significant infrastructure damage and casualties. Many roads and bridges are damaged; 206 roads nationwide—including main routes—are blocked. Ten bridges have been reported damaged. All access routes to Nuwara Eliya and Anuradhapura cities are currently obstructed. Roadways may be blocked by landslides or floodwater.
Transportation services have also been heavily impacted: all trains and many international flights have been cancelled or rerouted.
The U.S. Embassy advises residents in vulnerable or low-lying areas to move to higher ground immediately without waiting for floodwaters to reach their homes. People should prepare for possible interruptions to water supply by storing safe drinking water when possible. Monitoring local news for updates is recommended as well as confirming flight status before traveling to airports.
The U.S. Embassy remains open during normal business hours from Monday through Friday between 08:00 – 17:30 hrs.
For assistance:
U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 (11) 202-8500
Email: ColomboACS@state.gov
Website: https://lk.usembassy.gov
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
Residents can enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security updates or follow embassy social media channels on Facebook and Twitter/X.
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